Baptisms
By one Spirit we are all baptized. 1 Corinthians 12:13
We are a church whose unity is in Jesus Christ, who gathers us around word and water, wine, and bread. Baptism is a significant part of our faith journey as we come from the baptismal waters to live a new life as children of God.
Holy Baptism is our welcome into the family of God. Our baptism sets us out on a lifelong journey that is characterized by our relationship to God, our relationship to our faith community, our relationships in our community and the wider world. Living our baptismal covenant means living a life of growth in the faith practices of discipleship. Parents wanting their infants to be baptized, or older children/adults seeking their own baptism, should contact the Pastor several weeks prior to the desired date of the baptism. As often as possible, baptisms are integrated into our regular Sunday morning worship.
Funerals
The Lord is my shepherd. Psalm 23:1
The death of a Christian is an occasion for thanksgiving and the proclamation of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. “When the church gathers to mark the end of life, Christ crucified and risen is the witness of worship, the strength of mutual consolation, and the hope of healing” (Evangelical Lutheran Worship). Although a Christian funeral honestly confronts the harsh reality of life’s ending, it witnesses to our hope in a new life beginning, both for the deceased and for those who grieve.
The pastor and the church building are available for funerals. This is a work of mercy and opportunity to bring the Gospel in word and deed to members and non-members. The members of the church are available to provide and serve lunch. Arrangements for lunch are usually made through the funeral home. The purpose of the lunch is to provide support for the grieving family and friends. A noon lunch will consist of a hot dish, salad, bars or cake, rolls, relishes, rolls, coffee, and cold beverages. An afternoon option will consist of bars or cake, coffee, and cold beverages. If the family would prefer to make other arrangements for providing food, please advise the church office. If funeral arrangements are not being made through a funeral home, please contact the pastor for fees and procedures.
Other Uses
Current members of Balsam Lutheran may use the facility at no charge. However, a gift donation would be appreciated to help defray expenses. Members wishing to use the church should contact the church office to complete and submit a Facility Use Form. The use needs to be approved by the church council or its president. When approved, the submitter will be notified, and the date will be reserved on the church office calendar.
Nonmembers or other organizations will be charged for use of the church. Only the fellowship hall, kitchen and bathrooms will be part of the use agreement unless otherwise negotiated with the church council or its president. Non-members wishing to use the church should contact the office to complete and submit a Facility Use Form. The use needs to be approved by the church council or its president. If approved, the submitter will be notified, and the date will be reserved on the church office calendar.
Fees for Non-members:
Facility Fee: $100 for less than 3 hours, $150 for 3 hours or more
Janitor Fee: $100 (regardless of length of use)
All users are expected to leave the facility as they found it.
Weddings
Love is patient and kind. 1 Corinthians 13:4
Congratulations on your upcoming wedding! This is an exciting time for you, and we are pleased that you are considering to be married at Balsam Lutheran Church. Please contact our wedding coordinator for information on weddings at our church.
